ProEndorphin: Energy, Mood and Neurotransmitters
GINSENG in PROENDORPHIN
The herbal remedies referred to as 'ginseng' are derived from the roots of several plants. For thousands of years, the roots of this slow-growing plant have been valued in Chinese medicine as a tonic indicated for its beneficial effects on the central nervous system, protection from stress ulcers, increase 
of gastrointestinal motility, anti-fatigue action, enhancement of sexual function and acceleration of metabolism. The two most commonly used species are Asian or Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) and American ginseng (Pan ax quinquefolius L.). [1,2]
Written records of the medical use of ginseng first appeared about 2,000 years ago. The word 'panax' comes from the Latin 'panacea,' meaning 'all healing' or 'universal remedy,' indicating the wide belief that ginseng is effective in combating ailments of all kinds. [3]
The main active components of Panax ginseng are ginsenosides, which are triterpene saponins. The majority of published research on the medicinal activity of Pan ax ginseng has focused on ginsenosides. These are the compounds to which some ginseng products are now standardized. [4]
Ginseng contains a complex mixture of carbohydrate compounds, nitrogenous compounds, fat soluble compounds, vitamins and minerals. It is the complex carbohydrate compounds called ginsenosides that are the significant active ingredients. These compounds have chemical structures similar to human hormones and it is believed that they may work similarly. [5]
General Functions
Quality research teams in China, Japan, Korea and
the US suggest that ginseng helps the formation of red blood cells and helps to eliminate anemia. [6,7] Their research has also found positive results in mood enhancement and the ability to perform mental tasks, reduce fatigue after mental exertion, and reduce blood sugar levels (used to prevent and/or treat diabetes). [1,8]
Ginseng has been found to enhance sexual functions. Animal studies have shown that ginseng can increase sperm production, sexual activity, and sexual performance. A study of 46 men has also shown an increase in sperm count as well as motility. [9,10] Ginseng properties were studied to conclude that the root helps facilitate liver regeneration and enhances blood alcohol clearance, thus reducing the effects of alcohol consumption. [11,12]
Ginseng is considered to be an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a substance that has the ability to bring the body back into a healthy, balanced state. Ginseng is seen as having both soothing and revitalizing adaptogenic properties. Ginseng seems to be able to increase the body's ability to adapt and adjust.
It is believed that the active ingredients in ginseng can harmonize body functions and are only used as needed, even if taken regularly. [5]
Ginseng and Energy
Having enough energy to get through each stress-filled day has become a challenge. A healthy 'tonic' is much preferred to the strong stimulants that take you to the heights, only to crash and burn a short time later. Ginseng is considered 'energizing,' but has not been shown to stimulate the central nervous system the way coffee and other stimulants do. As stated above, ginseng contains natural compounds plus vitamins and minerals.
*In a double-blind study, 50 healthy male sports teachers between 21 and 47 years of age were given, every day for 6 weeks, 2 capsules of a preparation containing ginseng extract, DMAE, vitamins, minerals and trace elements or 2 placebos. They were assessed for physical performance by a treadmill with increasing work loads. The total work load and maximal oxygen consumption were significantly greater during exercise after this preparation was administered, versus placebo. At the same work load, oxygen consumption, plasma lactate levels, ventilation, carbon dioxide production and heart rate during exercise were significantly combination of ginseng, DMAE, etc. can increase the subjects' work capacity by improving muscular oxygenation. [13]
Ginseng and Sexual Function
Few people would disagree with the idea that sex is basic to human existence. It is not only a tremendous source of pleasure, but also a key element of both male and female identity. Panax ginseng has long been reputed to increase sexual energy and endurance. It promotes overall good health, which in turn promotes optimal sexual health. Ginseng revitalizes the adrenal glands, boosts the immune system, and works to reduce the effects of stress. It has also been shown
to stimulate the central nervous system in a natural way. Experts agree that the most potent sensory organ in the body is the brain, and numerous studies have concluded that ginseng enhances mental activities and mood. [14]
*A study published in the Journal of Urology notes that Korean ginseng, when ingested at a dose of 900 mg, three times per day, significantly increased sexual desire and satisfaction with sexual perfonnance, compared to placebo. Sixty percent of men taking the 2,700 mg daily dose of the Korean ginseng reported better erections and in general, better maintenance of the erection. [15]
*The efficacy of Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) in treating erectile dysfunction was demonstrated in a random-controlled clinical trial involving a total of 90 patients studied over 3 months, 30 each receiving placebo, trazadone, or ginsenosides. Ginseng was the most efficacious treatment with improvements measured in erectile parameters such as girth, libido, and patient satisfaction. [16]
Ginseng and Blood Sugar
Diabetes is a major health problem in North America reaching epidemic proportions. In the past decade, the United States has seen a dramatic 33% rise in diabetes coupled to increases in obesity and unhealthy lifestyle. [17,18] This increase in diabetes has occurred in spite of major inroads in understanding the pathophysiology and treatment of this insidious disease. Current therapies seem to be insufficient to prevent diabetic complications in type 2 diabetes with two- to fourfold likelihood for developing cardiovascular events. [19] Because of these limitations, there is a continuous need for the development of novel health promotion strategies and therapeutic modalities.
*Ginseng non-nutritive polysaccaharides (GP) known as panaxans have anti-diabetic, blood sugar lowering effects. GP reduces blood sugar and liver glycogen formation through enhanced metabolism (oxidative phosphorylation) of carbohydrates and decreased liver glycogenesis (this result shows that reduction in blood sugar may be partially mediated through non-insulin mechanisms) and increased insulin release. [20]
*The effects of Pan ax ginseng, given in a dosage of 100-200 mg per day for eight weeks, were studied in 36 patients with newly diagnosed non-insulin-dependent diabetes. The study showed improved fasting blood glucose levels, elevated mood, and improved psychophysical performance on a numbered diagram test. The 200 mg dose also resulted in improved hemoglobin AIC values. [21]
*In a study in the U.K., people with type 2 diabetes who consumed ginseng and a highly viscous fiber similar to pectin had a notable reduction in blood sugar levels. The study enrolled 30 people with diabetes in whom medication helped to control, but did not normalize, blood sugar levels. The participants received either capsules containing ground, North American grown ginseng and a highly viscous fiber, or dummy capsules, three times a day for 12 weeks. After a 4-week break, the participants switched to the alternate regimen. Blood samples taken before and after each 12-week period showed that hemoglobin AIC, a standard measure of blood sugar levels, dropped into the normal range when participants were taking the ginseng/fiber capsules, but not when they were taking placebo. The herbal preparation appeared to be safe, with no adverse effects. [22]
Ginseng - Mood Enhancement, Cognitive Performance and Neurotransmitters
Ginseng has been attributed with a plethora of physiological effects that could potentially benefit cognitive performance and mood. Studies involving animals show that ginseng and its constituent ginsenosides can modulate indices of stress, fatigue, and learning. Recent research has demonstrated
that single doses of ginseng most notably engender cognitive benefits in terms of improved memory, and has also been shown to modulate cerebroelectrical (EEG) activity. [23] According to the Natural Standard Patient Monograph, mental performance benefits from ginseng have been seen both in healthy young people and in older ill patients. [24] People taking ginseng often report feelings of improved overall well-being. [25]
*A double-blind study by Wiklund et al using the same primary endpoint as their previous (1994) study, demonstrated significant improvements in comparison to placebo on several subscales of the Psychological General Well Being Index to 394 symptomatic postmenopausal women. This finding has offered some qualified support to the results of a controlled trial by Tode et aI, which showed that 12 postmenopausal women with climacteric syndrome showed improvements both in an imbalance of hormones and on measures of mood following 30 days administration of 6 g of ginseng. [26-28]
*A study by Marasco et al attempted to isolate the effect of ginseng on the well-being of subjectively stressed and fatigued participants (625), in a double blind study administering either multivitamin capsules or multivitamin/ginseng capsules taken
for 12 weeks. Both treatments induced a significant increase in a quality oflife index in comparison to placebo, but the increase was significantly higher for the ginseng/ vitamins group. [29]
*A study by Sorensen and Sonne on cognitive effects of ginseng involved 112 healthy participants over 40 years old (40-70) who received either 400 mg of standardized ginseng extract or placebo daily for 8-9 weeks. Tests included the finger tapping test, both auditory and visual simple reaction time tests, a verbal fluency test and a Logical Memory and Reproduction Test. Results showed statistically significant performance improvements for the ginseng group, in comparison to placebo. [30]
SAFETY
It is important that consumers ensure that they are purchasing authentic ginseng extract that has been standardized, and comes from a reputable company. There are wide variations in quality among different brands. That being noted, standardized ginseng extract has been well tolerated by most people in scientific studies when used at recommended doses, and serious side effects appear to be rare. [24]
Based on human research, ginseng may lower blood sugar levels. This effect may be greater in patient,S with diabetes than in non-diabetic individuals. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Avoid use of ginseng in patients with hormone sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, or endometriosis. [24]
Ginseng should be discontinued at least 7 days prior to surgery for two reasons. First, ginseng can lower blood glucose levels and, therefore, create problems for patients fasting prior to surgery. Second, ginseng may act as a blood thinner, thereby increasing the risk of bleeding during or after the procedure. [9]
GUIDELINES FOR USE
Adults (18 years and older): 100-200 mg of a standardized ginseng extract taken by mouth once or twice daily has been used in studies for up to 12 weeks. [24]
Next: Nutrients in ProEndorphin: DMAE/Deanol
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Learn more about ProEndorphin: My Opinion as a Consumer
Learn more about ProEndorphin: The Niacin Flush
Learn more about ProEndorphin: A Comprehensive Review
Learn more about ProEndorphin: Energy Mood and Neurotransmitters
Learn more about Nutrients in ProEndorphin: Ginseng
Learn more about Nutrients in ProEndorphin: DMAE/Deanol
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